Genesis 47:30
But I will lie with my fathers, and thou shalt carry me out of Egypt, and bury me in their buryingplace. And he said, I will do as thou hast said.
Genesis 47:30 · King James Version
Meaning
The verse "But I will lie with my fathers, and thou shalt carry me out of Egypt, and bury me in their buryingplace. And he said, I will do as thou hast said." refers to the request made by Joseph, the son of Jacob, to be buried in the promised land of Canaan with his forefathers. Joseph, who had spent most of his life in Egypt, wanted to ensure that he would be laid to rest in the land that God had promised to his ancestors. By instructing his descendants to carry his remains out of Egypt and bury him in the burying place of his fathers, Joseph was acknowledging his faith in God's covenant with his family. This verse also demonstrates Joseph's trust in the fulfillment of God's promise to his people, even after his passing. In agreeing to carry out Joseph's request, his descendants affirmed their commitment to their heritage and their belief in the faithfulness of God.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of the verse in Genesis 50:5 focuses on the concept of honoring one's ancestors and fulfilling their last wishes. In this passage, Joseph is told by his father Jacob that he will be buried alongside his forefathers in their burial place. This act of burial in a family tomb holds great significance in Jewish tradition, symbolizing the continuity of the family line and the respect for those who came before. By agreeing to carry out his father's request, Joseph is showing his reverence for his ancestors and his commitment to honoring their memory.
Furthermore, a word study of the term "buryingplace" in this verse reveals the Hebrew word "quburah" which translates to a place of burial or a sepulcher. This word emphasizes the importance of a designated resting place for the deceased, highlighting the need for dignity and respect in handling the remains of loved ones. Joseph's willingness to fulfill Jacob's request to be buried in the family tomb exemplifies the cultural and religious significance of proper burial practices in ancient times, reflecting the value placed on honoring the dead and maintaining familial connections even after death.
Genesis 47:30 in other translations
American Standard Version
but when I sleep with my fathers, thou shalt carry me out of Egypt, and bury me in their burying-place. And he said, I will do as thou hast said.
World English Bible
but when I sleep with my fathers, you shall carry me out of Egypt, and bury me in their burying place.” He said, “I will do as you have said.”
Douay-Rheims
But I will sleep with my fathers, and thou shalt take me away out of this land, and bury me in the burying place of my ancestors. And Joseph answered him: I will do what thou hast commanded.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But when I shall sleepe with my fathers, thou shalt carry me out of Egypt, and bury mee in their buryall. And he answered, I will doe as thou hast sayde.